Optimal neuro|spine

Episode 25: The Evolution and Optimization of Spine Surgery. A Conversation with Dr. Edward Benzel

Maxwell Boakye, MD MPH Episode 25

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0:00 | 59:48

There are few names as recognizable as Dr. Edward Benzel in the field of spine surgery. He quite literally wrote the book on it. On this episode, I have the distinct privilege of sitting down with Dr. Benzel to discuss a myriad of topics including his experiences in spine surgery and the lessons he’s learned, his evolution as a spine surgeon, safety in spine surgery, and his thoughts on where the field is headed next.

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...

  • Getting to know Dr. Benzel and his current clinical practice [0:37]
  • How to evolve as a spine surgeon [5:59]
  • Improving your decision-making skills [11:38]
  • How Dr. Benzel stays productive and relevant [14:48]
  • Cognitive versus psychomotor development and advice for surgeons training the next generation [17:12]
  • How to best minimize complications and the most common errors made by surgeons [20:18]
  • Dr. Benzel’s seven cardinal sins for a spine surgeon [23:19]
  • Addressing burnout in spine surgeons [25:44]
  • Improvements in biomechanical knowledge from surgeons in training [28:14]
  • What surprises Dr. Benzel the most about the evolution of spine surgery and the new technologies he is most excited about [31:19]
  • Dr. Benzel’s take on current trends in spine surgery [34:55]
  • Exploring the prevention and treatment of chronic back pain [37:56]
  • The role mental health plays in the treatment of severe stenosis and spondylolisthesis [40:32]
  • How Dr. Benzel treats cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) [41:37]
  • Getting specific about laminoplasty [48:04]
  • Dr. Benzel answers rapid-fire spine surgery questions and three things hospitals with spine programs can do to optimize their outcomes [50:06]
  • Comparing global spine surgery rates and eliminating unnecessary operations [54:59]
  • The magic wand question [56:41]

Connect with Dr. Edward Benzel

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